The issue for the talented defender was that he wasn’t going to go straight into the team at Goodison. He was one for the future and would have to bide his time behind first-choice Seamus Coleman, be patient and prove himself at Premier League level.

West Ham, who are not anywhere near as blessed in the right-back position as Everton are, could even throw Byram in at the deep end on Saturday evening when Man City head to Upton Park.

Martinez wasn’t willing to make such promises and was always up front and forthright with a player he believed had the potential to do great things.

Byram has made 143 appearances and scored 10 goals for Leeds but he remained, much like Coleman was, rough round the edges and in need to time to adapt and grow at the highest, uncompromising level of Premier League football.

Seamus Coleman stood in Byram's way for a first team place

But under the guidance of a manager proven in developing young players and known for expertly pacing their careers, it was hoped Byram would see Everton as the perfect place to be.

But he wanted to play, and he wanted to play now, so he chose West Ham, where there is no Coleman shaped obstacle in his way.

His decision has been made for footballing reasons and Everton, who did all they could to get the deal done, have respected his thinking.

Byram and the Blues, who looked a natural fit, go their separate ways with no hard feelings.